Answer
Jan 23, 2025 - 04:42 AM
Hello!
Yes, you can absolutely use water or soapy water as a lubricant for your sharpening stones. Water works well to keep the stones clean and reduce friction during sharpening.
However, for optimal performance and longevity of your stones, we recommend using a dedicated honing oil. Here are a few excellent options:
- Norton Honing Oil: A classic choice known for its good lubricating properties.
- Boride Honing Oil: A premium oil that offers excellent performance and helps prevent corrosion.
- Hapstone Magic Oil: Our own specially formulated honing oil that provides superior lubrication and helps to keep your stones clean and clog-free.
While water is a viable option, honing oils offer several advantages:
- Better Lubricity: They provide a more slippery surface, reducing friction and heat buildup during sharpening.
- Rust Prevention: Honing oils help to protect your blades and stones from rust and corrosion.
- Improved Stone Life: They help to prevent the stone's pores from clogging with metal particles, extending its lifespan.
Ultimately, the choice is yours! If you prefer a simple and readily available option, water or soapy water will work just fine. However, if you want the best possible performance and protection for your sharpening equipment, we recommend using a dedicated honing oil.
If you have any more questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Sincerely,
Mario Hapstone
